A Wallet-Friendly Way to Escape Winter in the Capital U.S. Botanic Garden

DC is full of free attractions, but my haven from the February chill is the U.S. Botanic Garden.

The glass conservatory is beautiful, historic, and recently renovated. Let's also talk about the fact that the buildings are warm. In addition to the novelty of walking around coat-less in blizzard season, being surrounded by hundreds of orchids creates a level of happiness that houseplants just can't muster. I'm also fond of the medicinal plant and Hawaii sections, which you can check out in the USBG's virtual tour. Without breaking out my gardening gloves or wallet, I feel recharged and inspired.